Explore Puerto Plata Province
Diving in Puerto Plata, nestled on the vibrant northern coast of the Dominican Republic, offers a thrilling underwater adventure for divers seeking both beauty and challenge. The region boasts a diverse array of dive sites, from colorful coral gardens and dramatic walls to intriguing shipwrecks that tell tales of the past. Puerto Plata's unique location on the Atlantic Ocean provides more energetic conditions compared to the Caribbean Sea, making it an ideal spot for experienced divers. The region is known for its strong currents, presenting perfect opportunities for advanced dive courses like deep, drift, and wreck diving.
Marine life flourishes in the waters surrounding Puerto Plata, with an abundance of species such as grouper, red snapper, and the majestic humpback whales. Sosua Bay, a nearby diving hotspot, offers magnificent walls with tunnels and prolific big fish action, adding excitement to every dive. The dry season from December to May ensures sunnier weather, ideal for diving, while the period from December to March offers the enchanting experience of hearing and potentially spotting humpback whales. Whether you're exploring the eerie Zingara Wreck or the famed Airport Wall, diving in Puerto Plata provides unforgettable encounters with both marine life and the dynamic underwater landscapes of the Dominican Republic.
Places to Explore
Cabarete
Cabarete is located along the northern coast of the Dominican Republic in the Puerto Plata province, where its silky beaches and crystal-clear waters continue to woo travellers year after year. As a diving destination, Cabarete offers everything for all skill levels. Beginners will relish the abundant marine life that thrives on the expansive reef in the bay, all in shallow, calm waters. Experienced divers can delve into wrecks, caves and walls, and be immersed by abyssal beauty in deeper depths.
The Silver Bank
Diving in The Silver Bank you will experience magical, life-altering encounters with humpback whales and their calves.
Sosua
One of the best dive sites in the Dominican Republic is Airport Wall, located east of Sosua Bay. This dive site is a favorite for returning divers.
Top Dive Sites Map
Diving in Puerto Plata Province
Puerto Plata Province in the Dominican Republic is home to several exceptional dive sites that attract enthusiasts from around the globe. One of the most notable is the wreck of the Zingara, an old cargo vessel transformed into a vibrant artificial reef. This site offers divers the thrill of exploring a sunken ship teeming with marine life, including colorful corals and tropical fish.
For those who prefer shore diving, Sosúa Bay is a popular choice, offering accessible sites with rich underwater landscapes. Here, divers can enjoy the beauty of shallow coral gardens and the chance to observe unique marine behaviors such as nurse sharks resting on the ocean floor. Additionally, the region provides a balance between shore and liveaboard diving, catering to various preferences. Night dives are a particular highlight, revealing the nocturnal activities of the local marine life and offering an unforgettable experience.
The best Months to dive in Puerto Plata Province
Puerto Plata Province offers year-round diving opportunities, with its warm Caribbean waters inviting divers at any time. Water temperatures generally range from 77°F (25°C) in the winter to 82°F (28°C) in the summer, ensuring comfortable dives throughout the year. Visibility typically extends from 50 to 100 feet, although it can occasionally be affected by weather conditions.
While diving is possible all year, the period from June to November is the hurricane season, which might bring stronger winds and currents, potentially impacting diving conditions. The most favorable diving conditions are usually found from December to May, when the weather is dry and stable. Divers should always check local weather forecasts and consult with dive operators for the latest conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
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